Top Of The Morning News: January 11, 2013

Kansas Governor Sam Brownback wants to keep funding levels study and increase support for clinics that help those most at risk. Kansas City has appointed a local to fire chief after a nationwide search. The Prairiefire development breaks ground in Overland Park. Politicians spar over whether the Missouri Governor can appoint a lieutenant governor.

Kansas Governor Sam Brownback said leaders across the country have wrestled with how to best respond to tragedies like in Connecticut and Colorado. He says strengthening the mental health safety net system is one place where the state can actually make a difference. Find out more here.

Berardi Named Kansas City Fire Chief

Twenty-six years after signing on as a Kansas City firefighter, Paul Berardi has become the chief of the department. The new chief replaces Richard “Smokey” Dyer, who retired. Find out more about the new chief here.

Prairiefire Breaks Ground In Overland Park

City and state officials were on hand Thursday to lift the shovels during a ceremonial groundbreaking for Prairiefire. The project is envisioned as a mix of retail and housing, and an exhibition space in the complex, called the Museum of Prairiefire, will host traveling exhibitions from the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. Find out more here.

Can Nixon Appoint A New Lieutenant Governor?

One of the most talked-about issues so far during Missouri’s regular legislative session is whether Governor Jay Nixon has the authority to appoint a new Lt. Governor if Peter Kinder becomes the new Congressman for the state’s 8th District. Find out why Nixon says yes and others say no here.